Pan-Island Link 1: Key to Penang's sustainable growth, connectivity — state exco

• Penang Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari: "Penang’s rapid urban development, particularly southward expansion from George Town, has outpaced the capacity of existing road networks."

GEORGE TOWN (Jan 13): The Pan-Island Link 1 (PIL1) is a vital infrastructure project aimed at supporting Penang’s long-term urban planning goals, addressing traffic congestion, and improving connectivity across the island.

Penang Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari (pictured) said PIL1 lays the groundwork for sustainable growth and development in the state.

"Penang’s rapid urban development, particularly southward expansion from George Town, has outpaced the capacity of existing road networks.

"Jalan Masjid Negeri (Green Lane), originally designed as a Middle Ring Road, is now heavily congested and functions more as a local access road rather than a traffic dispersal route. The solution lies in constructing an Outer Ring Road like PIL1, strategically positioned beyond George Town's densely developed areas to redistribute traffic and alleviate congestion effectively,” he said in a statement on Monday.

Previously, concerns were raised by activists regarding the proposed construction of PIL1, warning that it could impact the potential ridership of Penang's planned Light Rail Transit (LRT) system.

Zairil said PIL1 functions as a strategic bypass, seamlessly integrating with Penang’s broader transport network, including the ongoing Ayer Itam–Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Bypass.

He added that PIL1 will provide an alternative route to overburdened roads such as Lebuhraya Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu and Jalan Masjid Negeri. With six interchanges connecting Gurney to the island’s southeast, the project is expected to reduce pressure on existing roadways and improve mobility for residents and businesses.

"Penang aspires to achieve a 40% public transport mode share and the upcoming LRT project is a major step towards achieving this, However, even if this target is attained, 60% of the population will still rely on road transport.

"This dynamic underscores the importance of developing both rail and road infrastructure, as these modes complement rather than undermine one another, each serving distinct roles and catering to specific market demands. Lest we forget, buses use roads as well," he added.

Zairil noted that Singapore offers a successful example of this integrated approach. Despite a 70% public transport mode share, the city-state continues to invest in road infrastructure to meet population and economic needs.

He emphasised that integrated planning ensures a seamless and efficient transport system to accommodate diverse mobility requirements. Contrary to concerns that PIL1 might reduce LRT ridership, he clarified that both projects serve distinct alignments and catchments, addressing different transportation needs.

He said PIL1 complements the LRT rather than competing with it, ensuring an integrated transport system that caters to diverse mobility demands.

To address environmental concerns, Zairil said the state has adopted sustainable and eco-friendly engineering solutions for PIL1, including tunnels and cable-stayed bridges.

The environmental impact assessment (EIA) will be updated with the latest data and resubmitted for review to ensure compliance with environmental standards.

PIL1 will also enhance access to key economic and industrial hubs, including the Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone (FIZ) and Penang International Airport. The FIZ, a globally-recognised hub for technology and high-value manufacturing, is critical to Penang’s economy.

“By improving accessibility, PIL1 strengthens Penang’s competitiveness, attracts new investments, and supports emerging technology-driven industries. PIL1 is not just a solution to current traffic challenges but a forward-looking initiative designed to prepare Penang for future demands,” he said.

Zairil added that the Economy Ministry’s support for PIL1 underscores its importance in defining Penang’s path toward a sustainable and prosperous future. Balancing development with conservation, PIL1 aims to ensure that Penang remains a vibrant, resilient, and globally-competitive state.

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